Chapter 9: Mastering the 6th Tool- The Mind in Baseball

If you have been around the game long enough, I’m certain you have heard certain players referred to as 5-tool players, a term that reflects an exceptional level of talent and versatility on the baseball field. Certain players like Mookie Betts, Mike Trout, and the great Ken Griffey Jr. are some that come to mind when thinking of true 5-tool players, individuals who not only dominate in one area but excel in all aspects of the game.

First, what are those 5 tools many scouts speak of? They typically include hitting for average, hitting for power, base running skills, throwing ability, and fielding proficiency. Here they are for you just in case you did not know what they are, as understanding these attributes can deepen your appreciation for the players who stand out among their peers and leave an indelible mark on the sport.

The 5 Tools

• Hitting for average: A player’s batting average
• Hitting for power: A player’s ability to hit home runs and slug
• Speed: A player’s sprint speed
• Throwing arm: A player’s throwing velocity and arm strength
• Fielding: A player’s ability to play the field, which includes hand-eye coordination, body awareness, athleticism, adjustability, and decision making.

Good V. Great Players

It is understood that not all, if any draft prospects will have the 5 tools in their tool belt when being considered for the MLB Draft. This reality means that scouts and teams often look beyond the traditional skill-set to identify which players stand out in a crowded field. So what is a definite separator when athletic ability is equal amongst prospects? It is often referred to as the 6th Tool- The Mind. This ‘tool’ encompasses a player’s mental acuity, game awareness, and ability to adapt under pressure.

A prospect with a keen baseball IQ can read the game, anticipate plays, and make quicker decisions, thereby contributing to their team’s success. This cognitive aspect of the game can sometimes overshadow raw talent, proving that mental strength and strategic thinking are just as crucial in reaching the major leagues.

The 6th Tool- The Mind

For those of you that have played or coached the game at a high level, you understand that the talent gap between players is almost non-existent. In professional baseball, all players can hit, can throw gas, run extremely fast, and play the field as smooth as a hot knife cutting butter.

However, the guys you see on TV playing on a daily basis possess a unique skill that separates them from the rest, making them Big League players. That is, their mindset is much different than the average MiLB player and even more distinct compared to the collegiate or high school players. Their minds are trained to slow the game down, engaging in mental practices that allow them to perceive the game in a way that feels almost serene, despite the pressure. They develop a short-term memory span for failure, understanding that each at-bat or play is a new opportunity, decidedly letting go of previous mistakes.

This mental resilience acts as a cornerstone of their performance, enabling them to maintain focus even when the stakes are high. They are so in-tuned with their abilities and the game of baseball that they can accurately assess situations in real-time, leading to educated decisions in crucial game scenarios, whether it be a daring steal, a perfectly placed bunt, or a strategic shift in their field placement—all calculated risks that often tip the game in their favor. This is what truly sets apart the exceptional athletes who rise to the top of their game.

How do they do it???

Some players are just built different than others and hardwired mentally different than others. The others we speak of start that training when they enter professional baseball and are welcomed by their organizations’ Mental Skills Departments, where they begin to hone their mental resilience and focus through structured programs tailored to enhance their performance under pressure.

Actionable Items

For players in college, high school, and beyond that don’t have access to Mental Performance Training, here are some things you can do as recommended by multiple professional baseball Mental Performance Coaches:

Develop a routine that incorporates visualization techniques to mentally rehearse performance scenarios.
Practice mindfulness and breathing exercises to center your thoughts during moments of anxiety.
Establish clear goals to maintain motivation and track progress, ensuring that you are consistently striving for improvement both on and off the field.
Stay attached to your process. Give yourself a couple days to size up the talent around you (only natural) and then commit to being the best version of yourself.
Replace all doubts/fears with positive statements/affirmations. Watch your highlight reels, visualize success, be conscious of your body language (carry yourself well).

Examples of Mental Performance Techniques

Breathing exercises– Take a deep breath before stepping in the batters box to calm nerves and help focus on success.
Positive Self-Talk– Talk to yourself in a manner that motivates and encourages you to do your best on the task.
“Reset” Button– Think of a phrase or an action after a mistake that can help you “reset and re-focus”.
Meditation– Listen to calming music before the time of competition in order to feel calm before a game.
Daily Goal Setting– Set clear goals for each at-bat, each pitch, each game or performance.
Mental Rehearsal– Visualize a positive outcome before the actual play, swing, or pitch. See it happen twice, first in your mind then in real time.

Nate Trosky and The 95/5

If you have never been a part of a Nate Trosky camp or have heard him speak at a conference, I strongly recommend attending one of his sessions. Trosky, a well-respected figure in the baseball community, shares invaluable insights that can transform the way players and coaches think about the game. He frequently discusses the concept of the 95/5 rule, emphasizing that the game of baseball is 95% mental and only 5% physical. This profound insight underscores the importance of mental preparedness, as the body will not perform physically what the mind has not adequately prepared for.

Moreover, in Trosky’s words, it is essential to “Get Your Mind Right” and focus intently on the task at hand. He encourages individuals to “Keep the main thing the main thing,” reminding us to enjoy each moment on the field, to immerse ourselves fully in the experience, and to refrain from dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about future outcomes. By fostering a positive mindset and concentrating on the present, players can significantly enhance their performance and enjoyment of the game.

Conclusion

To conclude, the 6th tool can be the difference maker in your playing career. Focus on yourself and your work; everyone’s journey to success is unique. Remember to Compete! The best way to demonstrate your skills is by competing against strong opponents. Challenge yourself and aim for excellence. Understand that your body language shows your mental toughness. Try to use positive self-talk to overcome doubts and invest time in improving your “Baseball IQ.” This will help you stand out among the talented players you compete against. Baseball is about handling failure. Once you understand this, it becomes easier. Instead of accepting failure, be ready for the next chance. In tough moments, take a deep breath to relax and focus.